Vermin explores loneliness, diaspora, and estrangement through decay, restraint, and vulnerability. The concept began at the intersection of a visit to the abandoned Leavesden Sanatorium and the shadow of a spray-painted mirror, resembling sun-bleached wallpaper with echoes of former picture frames. Since the Asylum was built in 1886, it inspired me to draw from the morbid Victorian zeitgeist, viewing its opulence through a liminal lens. This led me to explore corsetry, the historic symbol of feminine restriction, stripped back to its bare bones. To evoke loneliness, I took inspiration from urban exploration of abandoned mansions, hospitals, and asylums. Imagery of peeling wallpaper, hanging debris, and dripping melted candle wax all inspired elements in my looks. Music and subculture also played a crucial role in setting the visceral tone of the collection. Through Vermin, I aim to create garments that embody exposure and defence, softness and restraint, decay and beauty.